What is a factor that affects buoyancy underwater?

Buoyancy underwater is significantly influenced by depth change due to the variations in water pressure. As a diver descends, the increasing pressure compresses any air in the lungs and buoyancy control devices, which can lead to a decrease in volume and, consequently, less buoyant force. Conversely, as a diver ascends, the pressure decreases, causing the air in these spaces to expand and potentially increase buoyancy if not properly managed.

Understanding this relationship is critical for divers, as managing buoyancy is essential for safe and effective diving. It allows divers to maintain neutral buoyancy, which is necessary for controlling descent, ascent, and overall mobility underwater. While other factors, such as the quality of dive gear, diver experience, and the type of water, can play roles in diving safety and comfort, they do not directly correlate with the physics of buoyancy as depth change does.